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Creamy Parmesan Garlic Spaghetti Sauce Recipe


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4.2 from 46 reviews

  • Author: Jane
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Creamy Spaghetti Sauce is a rich and smooth sauce made with butter, garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasonings. It quickly transforms simple spaghetti into a flavorful and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners. The sauce pairs beautifully with chicken, shrimp, mushrooms, or vegetables for added versatility.


Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup chicken broth (or reserved pasta water)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving


Instructions

  1. Cook Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta.
  2. Sauté Garlic: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Create Roux: Stir in the flour and cook for another minute, whisking constantly to form a smooth paste that will thicken the sauce.
  4. Add Liquids: Slowly pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth while whisking continuously to ensure the sauce is smooth and lump-free.
  5. Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy.
  6. Simmer Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until it slightly thickens.
  7. Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti into the skillet and toss until evenly coated with the sauce. Use reserved pasta water if the sauce needs to be thinned out.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
  • For extra protein, add grilled chicken, shrimp, bacon, or sautéed mushrooms.
  • For a lighter sauce, substitute whole milk and a little cream cheese instead of heavy cream.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American